KTT Purple Star vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Star and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Purple Star and the KTT Semi Mute mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique features catered to different user preferences. The Purple Star switch is characterized by its smooth typing experience and light 45g bottom-out, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a gentle typing feel. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch, despite its silent operation, provides a satisfying typing experience with its linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, perfect for users who prioritize a noise-free environment. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Purple Star and the Semi Mute keyboards both feature unique housing materials that greatly impact the sound profile of the keys. The Purple Star utilizes a POM top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. In contrast, the Semi Mute uses polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. This distinction in sound quality is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which produces a more resonant sound compared to POM. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a preferred choice for switches that utilize RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall design.
Despite their differences, both keyboards offer distinct advantages based on their housing materials. The Purple Star's POM housing provides a more subdued and pleasing sound, ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute's polycarbonate housing delivers a sharper and higher-pitched sound, catering to users who prioritize clarity and precision in their keystrokes. While the sound profiles may vary, both materials offer durability and reliability, ensuring long-lasting performance for the keyboards.
When comparing the top and bottom housing materials of the Purple Star and the Semi Mute, it is evident that each plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the keys. The bottom housing material impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys, influencing the tactile feedback experienced when typing. Conversely, the top housing material influences the sound produced when releasing a key, contributing to the overall typing experience. By utilizing different housing materials for the top and bottom, the keyboards are able to balance the qualities brought by each material, resulting in a well-rounded and unique typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it's evident that the actuation force is the same at 43 grams for both switches. However, the bottom out force differs between the two. The Purple Star has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Semi Mute has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams. The lighter bottom out force of the Purple Star may appeal to those who prefer a softer touch and want to type for longer periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Semi Mute provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Semi Mute has a longer travel distance compared to the Purple Star. The shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm on the Purple Star may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the 4 mm travel distance on the Semi Mute may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial depth when typing. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference on whether you prefer a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
The KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
The KTT Purple Star linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile that is gentle on the ears, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch provides a muted and neutral sound, perfect for those who seek a quieter environment during late-night typing sessions. When it comes to feel, the Purple Star switch is described as mild and easy-to-press, allowing for effortless and comfortable typing with its light 45g bottom-out. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch is buttery and mild, providing a smooth and uniform typing sensation that is gratifying and comfortable.
Overall, the KTT Purple Star and Semi Mute linear switches offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. While the Purple Star switch excels in providing a light and smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the Semi Mute switch prioritizes a silent operation with a muted and buttery feel. Depending on personal preferences for typing noise and keypress feedback, both switches can cater to different needs and desires. Ultimately, whether choosing the Purple Star or Semi Mute switch, users can expect a satisfying and comfortable typing experience that aligns with their typing style and environment.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, consider the following guidelines. You may want to choose the Purple Star if you prefer a light typing experience with a low-pitched sound and easy-to-press keys. The Purple Star's buttery smooth feel and light bottom-out force make it ideal for light typists seeking comfort and ease during typing sessions. On the other hand, you may opt for the Semi Mute if you value a noise-free environment and desire a muted, neutral sound profile. The Semi Mute's linear actuation and advanced dampening technology offer a satisfying typing feel, especially for late-night sessions where silence is key. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for typing experience, sound profile, and noise level in your environment.
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